Anderson, IN - (March 8th) - The Flagship Enterprise Center (FEC), a non-profit economic development organization created in partnership by Anderson University and the City of Anderson, has named Dr. Terry Truitt as the next CEO with a unanimous vote by the organization’s Board of Directors, effective June 1, 2019. Dr. Truitt, currently serves as the Dean of the Anderson University Falls School of Business and has been a member of the FEC Board of Directors since 2003, serving as a member and officer.
"After thorough planning and a comprehensive search process led by Mary Jamerson, the board is pleased to have found who we believe is the best person to lead the Flagship Enterprise Center forward,” said Dennis Carroll, chairman of the FEC board. “Today, the FEC board of directors unanimously endorsed the recommendation of the search committee. Dr. Truitt is committed to the FEC mission and we have every confidence that his experience, skill set, and humble, collaborative style will provide the leadership we need.”
The selection of Dr. Truitt caps a five month search and review process that commenced after the retirement of former FEC CEO and President, Charles Staley, who served in the role for over 15 years. Terry Truitt holds a doctorate degree in finance and economics from Mississippi State University and a Masters of Business Administration as well as a bachelor’s degree from the University of North Alabama. He joined Anderson University in 1995 and held different roles and responsibilities within the organization including tenured Professor of Finance, MBA Program Director, and Dean of the Falls School of Business. He serves on several organizational boards including but not limited to, the Bankable loan committee, Madison County’s Center for Economic Development, and the Christian Business Faculty Association. He and his wife, Pam, have 3 children and have been residents of Anderson since 1995.
"I am honored and grateful to the FEC board for the opportunity to lead this remarkable organization of creative, dedicated, and talented professionals. It has been impressive how well the FEC team has remained focused on their operations during this process," shared Dr. Truitt. "As Interim CEO, Dan Courtney has led the team to make significant progress even in the face of the unknown in long-term leadership. This is a terrific opportunity that any leader would welcome.”
The Flagship Enterprise Center’s mission is to be a hub for economic and entrepreneurial activity and to serve as a catalyst to create new jobs and contribute to the long-term economic development of the communities of Anderson, Madison County, and the state of Indiana.
“As the primary public stakeholder in the FEC’s continuing mission to attract, create and grow new business in our community, the City of Anderson is proud of our relationship and achievements in working together with Anderson University, the private stakeholder in this enduring undertaking,” says Anderson Mayor, Thomas Broderick. “Dr. Truitt is a proven leader who understands our mission. However, he will not be satisfied with the status quo, but rather will work with the stakeholders and our partners as we advance new economic opportunities in our community. I am confident that our board has made a great selection in Terry and I look forward to working closely with him during his tenure to advance the community.”
John Pistole, President of Anderson University said, "We are extremely thankful for the partnership between Anderson University and the Flagship as they share our goals of being a distinctive, compelling, and relevant institution. Dr. Terry Truitt's leadership here on campus will be greatly missed, but the AU community is excited to see expanded partnership opportunities between the City, FEC and AU under his leadership.”
The mission of the FEC has been brought to life through the dedication and partnership of the City of Anderson and Anderson University. Notable economic drivers led by the Flagship Enterprise Center include the management of several properties offering premium manufacturing, education, and incubation space where many businesses have located to or launched in Anderson and have grown to create economic impact. The FEC also created a state-leading and nationally recognized SBA micro-loan program, Bankable, that offers affordable small business loans and quality technical assistance resources to empower small businesses to grow and develop.
For media inquiries, contact Kyle Fawcett, Director of Marketing at the Flagship Enterprise Center and Bankable at 765-203-2307.